RU2701588C2 - Digital table - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: food industry.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to beverage dispensing devices. Disclosed is a beverage dispenser having at least one dispensing station with at least one dispensing head configured to dispense the beverage through the bottom of the container. Dispenser head may dispense many different ingredients of the beverage which the user may choose to dispense the beverage according to taste. Alternatively, there may be several dispensing points integrated into the system, each of which is connected via a pipeline to the central remote ingredient system.

EFFECT: technical result is expansion of functional capabilities of device for dispensing beverages.

20 cl, 10 dwg

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This description relates generally to a beverage dispensing system for dispensing beverage ingredients through the bottom of a container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In various beverage dispensers, for example, in restaurants, theaters and other places of leisure and / or catering, either a “plug-in” dispenser or a desktop type dispenser is usually used. The plug-in dispenser is a stand-alone device and can be inserted into an opening in the surface of the rack. The desktop type dispenser is located on the surface of the rack. In traditional beverage dispensers, the dispensing head is connected to the supply source of a specific beverage concentrate through a single tube designed to supply a specific beverage concentrate to this dispensing head, and the supply source of a specific beverage concentrate is typically located near the surface of the rack, i.e., directly under the surface of the rack or directly above it.

Typically, the user places the cup under the pointer of the selected beverage and either presses the button or presses the dispensing lever with the cup to activate the dispenser so that the selected beverage is dispensed into the cup from the appropriate dispensing head selection until pressure is removed from the button or lever.

Conventional beverage dispensers are typically limited to dispensing beverages having flavoring sources located on their respective racks. Thus, a conventional beverage dispenser typically has a limited number of drinks. For example, the drinks that are commonly found in a traditional beverage dispenser are a classic cola drink, a diet cola drink, possibly one or more non-cola carbonated drinks, such as a lemon-lime carbonated drink or other fruit-flavored drinks (e.g. , an orange-flavored carbonated drink and / or rutbir), and optionally one or more non-carbonated drinks such as tea and / or lemonade.

Typically, traditional dispensers do not fulfill the possibility that the user for a possible purchase could create or receive from the same dispensing head a drink to taste, for example, cola with the aroma of cherry, vanilla, lemon or lime, etc., or tea with aroma of lemon, orange, apricot, raspberry, etc., or tea with one or more teaspoons of sweetener.

Typically, each dispenser in traditional dispensers requires a separate dispensing head.

There is a need for a beverage dispensing system that does not have the limitations and disadvantages of conventional beverage dispensers and methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a dispensing system is provided, for example, for dispensing beverages, including soda water.

In an embodiment, the dispensing system includes a dispensing location, such as a table, and at least one dispensing head configured to dispense the beverage through the bottom of the container.

In another embodiment, the dispensing system may dispense and / or mix many different beverage ingredients, including concentrates, flavors, and water. Through the user interface, the user can select the type of drink and add different flavor options.

In another embodiment, the dispensing system comprises a modular dispensing system having a plurality of dispensing locations, each of which is piped to a central remote ingredient system.

Those skilled in the art in view of the advantages represented by the following description of some embodiments disclosed herein issuing system will appreciate that at least some of the herein disclosed embodiments have improved or alternative configurations suitable to provide even greater benefits. These and other aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure or some embodiments of the disclosure will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of exemplary embodiments below in combination with the following drawings.

Some embodiments relate to a dispensing system for filling a container of a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing system includes a controller configured to receive a beverage order from a user and, based on a beverage order received from the social media system, make a container containing an identifier available; a table comprising a top surface, an ingredient path located beneath the top surface, comprising a plurality of ingredient lines, a dispensing head configured to tightly engage with a recessed portion at the bottom of the container, the dispensing head comprising one or more outlets for dispensing one or more outlets to the bottom of the container ingredients obtained from one or more ingredient lines, and a sensor configured to detect the presence of an identifier on the container when the container It is in sealing engagement with the dispensing head; and a controller configured to fill the container with beverage from below when the sensor detects an identifier on the container sealed to the dispensing head.

Some embodiments relate to a dispensing platform for filling a container with a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing platform comprises an upper surface; located below the upper surface of the ingredient tract containing many ingredient lines; and a dispensing head associated with the ingredient path and extending vertically above the upper surface, the dispensing head comprising a plurality of outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients received from one or more ingredient lines to the bottom of the container where the outlets are placed vertically on the dispensing head, and each of the plurality of ingredient lines is in fluid communication with one of the outlets of the dispensing head.

Some embodiments relate to a dispensing platform for filling a container with a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing platform comprises an upper surface; a mixing chamber located under the upper surface; a dispensing head connected to the mixing chamber and extending vertically above the upper surface, the dispensing head comprising an outlet for dispensing a beverage to the bottom of the container; and an ingredient path comprising a plurality of ingredient lines for supplying beverage forming ingredients to the mixing chamber, where the beverage ingredients are mixed in the mixing chamber before dispensing the beverage from the dispensing head.

Some embodiments relate to a dispensing system for filling a container with a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing system comprises a table; a dispensing head placed on the table and configured to tightly engage with a recessed portion at the bottom of the container, the dispensing head containing one or more outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients to the bottom of the container; a plurality of user interfaces configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head; and a controller configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head and to dispense one or more different types of drinks from the dispensing head.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a dispensing table in accordance with various aspects of the description.

In FIG. 2A is a side view of an embodiment of a dispensing table shown in FIG. one.

In FIG. 2B is a side view of an embodiment of a dispensing table shown in FIG. one.

In FIG. 3 is a top view of an embodiment of a dispensing table shown in FIG. one.

In FIG. 4 is a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of the dispensing head shown in FIG. one.

In FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a container for use with a dispensing table in accordance with aspects of the description.

In FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a lower portion of a container for use with a dispensing table in accordance with aspects of the description.

In FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface display in accordance with aspects of the description.

In FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of an issuing system in accordance with aspects of the description.

In FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a pipeline for use with a dispensing table in accordance with aspects of the description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Although the present invention admits embodiments in many different forms, the drawings show and in this document will describe in detail exemplary embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present description should be considered as an example of the principles of the invention and that it is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the illustrated embodiments only .

In the following description of various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are part of this document and which illustrate various embodiments in which the description may be implemented. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used.

In the following description of various examples of structures in accordance with the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are part of this document and which illustrate various examples of devices, systems and environments in which aspects of the invention may be implemented. It should be understood that other specific configurations of parts, examples of devices, systems, and environments may be used, and that structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, although the terms “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” “side,” “rear,” etc., may be used in this specification to describe various examples of features and elements of the invention, these terms are used. in this document for convenience, for example, based on examples of orientations shown in the figures, or orientations in normal use. In addition, the term “plurality,” as used herein, means any number greater than one, if necessary disjunctively or conjunctively, up to an unlimited number. No text in this specification should be construed in such a way that a specific three-dimensional orientation of the structures is a prerequisite for being within the scope of the present invention. In addition, it is explained to the reader that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily to scale.

In general, aspects of the present invention relate to delivery systems. In accordance with various aspects and embodiments, delivery systems without departing from the scope of the invention may be formed from one or more of a variety of materials, such as metals (including metal alloys), plastics, polymers, and composite materials, and may be formed in one of various configurations.

Various figures in this application illustrate examples of delivery systems in accordance with the present description. When the same item number appears in more than one drawing, the item number is used in this specification sequentially and the drawings throughout the text refer to the same or similar parts.

The embodiments described below can be used to formulate a wide variety of drinks, including, but not limited to, hot and cold drinks, and including, without limitation, drinks known under any PepsiCo trademark, such as Pepsi-Cola®.

At least in FIG. 1-8, a delivery system 50 is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. Dispensing systems 50 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure may be used to dispense liquids, including beverages, such as carbonated beverages, including soda water. The dispensing system 50 may essentially comprise one or more dispensing locations 100, which may be tables, racks, or other surfaces. Each dispensing location 100 may include at least one dispensing head 102 configured to dispense fluid substantially through the bottom of the container (eg, cups, bottles, etc.) 200. The dispensing system 50 may also include one or more containers 200 adapted to engage with the dispensing head 102 and receiving fluid from the dispensing head 102 through the bottom or bottom of the container 200. Each of the dispensing locations 100 may also include one or more user interface screens 400 that are The caller may use to select the type of liquid or beverage to dispense and / or combinations of beverage ingredients so that the user can select a beverage to taste. The dispensing system 50 may also be a modular system having a plurality of dispensing locations 100, each of which is connected to a central ingredient system 300.

As described above, the dispensing system 50 may also include an ingredient system 300 located at a distance from the dispensing location (s) 100 and connected to the dispensing location 100 via a pipe 301. The ingredient system 300 is configured to provide dispensing location (s) 100 of the beverage ingredients such as water, concentrate and flavorings. In some embodiments, the dispensing system may comprise a plurality of dispensing locations 100, each of which is connected via conduit 301 to a common ingredient system 300.

PLACE OF DELIVERY AND CONTAINER

As shown in FIG. 1-3, the place 100 of the issue may contain a table, counter or other surface. In some embodiments, the dispensing location 100 may include a countertop 120 having an upper surface 122. In some embodiments, the dispensing location 100 may include a supporting structure 124 to provide support for the countertop 120. Each dispensing location 100 may include at least one dispensing head 102, configured to dispense fluid to the bottom or bottom of the container 200. Each dispensing location 100 may also include one or more user interfaces 400 through which the user can ybirat one or more different types of drinks and / or combinations of drinks to create a drink to taste. Place 100 issuance may also contain an inclined surface 105 with a drain 107 in the lower part of the inclined surface. In addition, as will be described in more detail below, the dispenser 100 may also include an attachment point 106 that can be used to connect the dispenser 100 with the ingredient system 300 and / or pipe 301.

The dispensing head 102 may be a raised portion which, as shown in FIG. 4 may be substantially cylindrical in shape. However, the dispensing head 102 may have any suitable size or shape. As will be described below, the dispensing head 102 may have a size and shape that allows it to communicate with the lower part 202 of the container 200.

The dispensing head 102 may comprise one or more nozzles or points (i.e., outlets) 110 of dispensing. Each dispensing point 110 may be configured to supply a specific type of beverage and / or beverage ingredient to the container 200. In some embodiments, a single nozzle may be used to deliver a plurality of beverage ingredients.

In some embodiments, implementation, as shown in FIG. 2B, the dispensing system 50 may comprise one or more mixing chambers 140. As will be described in more detail below, beverage ingredients may be supplied to the mixing chamber (s) 140 from the ingredient system 300 and / or pipe 301. Into the mixing chamber 140 any beverage ingredients may be added. For example, a classic Pepsi-Cola® beverage may be formed in mixing chamber 140. The mixing chamber 140 may include inlets 141 for beverage ingredients and a mixed beverage discharge line 142 in fluid communication with the dispensing head 102. After mixing in the mixing chamber 140, the mixture exiting the mixing chamber 140 via the beverage discharge line 142 may have a weight the ratio of the ingredient (or concentrate) of the drink to water, equal to from about 5 to 1.

The mixing chamber 140 may also comprise a washing system capable of substantially rinsing the mixing chamber after dispensing the beverage. After the fluid is dispensed through the dispensing head 102, the fluid or other rinse aid may enter the mixing chamber 140 to rinse the mixing chamber and substantially remove colorants and / or flavors. The mixing chamber 140 may also comprise a drain 143 for draining the rinse aid from the mixing chamber 140 after completion of the rinsing.

As described above, the dispensing head 102 is configured to dispense one or more types of drinks and / or one or more types of beverage ingredients. In another embodiment, as shown primarily in FIG. 2A and 4, the dispensing location 100 may not contain a separate mixing chamber, and the mixing of the ingredients may be carried out in the dispensing head 102 and / or in the container 200. In one embodiment, for example, the dispensing head 102 may contain at least three separate dispensing points 110. Points 110 of the issue can be located vertically above each other. For example, in one embodiment, the dispensing system may comprise a first dispensing point 112, a second dispensing point 114 above the first dispensing point 112, and a third dispensing point 116 above the second dispensing point. In one example, the first dispensing point 112 may be configured to dispense soda water flavors, such as a flavor; a second dispensing point 114 may be configured to dispense a product or concentrate for soda water; third dispensing point 116 may be configured to dispense water or soda. In such a system, dispensing points 112, 114 and 116 may be configured to mix the individual components of the beverage inside the container 200. In addition, dispensing points 112, 114 and 116 may be configured so that liquid from the highest, or third, dispensing point 116, could rinse the first and second points 112, 114 issue after the container 200 is removed from the dispensing head 102.

In some embodiments, the dispensing locations 100 may comprise an ultraviolet treatment device (not shown) that can be used to clean, such as killing and / or inactivating microorganisms, at the dispensing location 100, especially near the dispensing head 102.

The dispensing location may also comprise a refrigeration unit (not shown) or a heating unit (not shown) for cooling or heating the beverage ingredients supplied to the dispensing location 100.

As shown in FIG. 4, 5A and 5B, the dispensing head 102 is adapted to engage with or bind to the container 200 on the lower portion 202 of the container 200 so that the beverage can be dispensed substantially into the lower portion 202 of the container 200. The container 200 may be any type of container, essentially made to hold liquids, such as a glass, cup, mug, bottle, etc. As will be described below, the container 200 may include a recessed portion 204 in the lower part 202 of the container 200, configured to receive the dispensing head 102.

To dispense a beverage from the dispensing head 102, the user associates the container 200 with the dispensing head 102 by placing the container on top of the dispensing head 102. The container 200 may include a dispensing head inlet system 206 that can have any number of different configurations allowing the dispensing head 102 to dispense fluid into the container 200 and then seal the container 200 after the container 200 has been removed from the dispensing head 102. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the recessed portion 204 may have an opening 208 through which the dispensing head 102 or part of the dispensing head 102 can be inserted. The inlet system 206 of the dispensing head may include a first contact surface 210 that can substantially form a ring or part of a ring around the opening 208. The system 206, the input of the dispensing head may also comprise a second contact surface 212 forming a surface capable of covering the hole 208 and engaging with the first contact surface 212. The first and second contact surfaces The surfaces 210, 212 can be offset to each other so that when the dispensing head 102 is not connected to the container 200, the first and second contact surfaces 210, 212 essentially form a liquid tight seal, preventing liquid from flowing out through the lower part 202 of the container . The first and second contact surfaces 210, 212 can be biased to each other using magnets, springs, and any other suitable devices. In some embodiments, the first and second contact surfaces can be displaced to each other simply due to gravity.

When the container 200 engages with the dispensing head 102, it causes the first and second contact surfaces 210, 212 to separate from each other to form a flow path for fluid to flow from the dispensing head 102 to the container 200.

The dispensing head 102 may be manually operated, so that when the user places the container 200 on the dispensing head 102, liquid is supplied to the container 200 until the user removes the container 200 from the dispensing head. In such a system, the dispensing head 102 and / or dispensing location 100 may comprise a lever or other device capable of determining when the container 200 is in contact with the dispensing head 102. However, in other embodiments, the dispensing head 102 can automatically fill the container to a certain level.

In some embodiments, the container 200 may have an identifier so that it is possible to implement various advantageous processes. As an example, the container identification system 250 may include a container 200 and a dispensing location 100. In some embodiments, the container 200 may have an identifier 251 so that the issuing location 100 can recognize it. Place 100 issuance may have a sensor 252 for detecting the presence of the container 200 and / or its identification. In some embodiments, the sensor 252 may be a sensor based on mutual capacitance and include support for detecting multiple touches. Depending on the embodiment, the sensor 252 may be located in various places. In some embodiments, the implementation of the sensor 252 may be located within the inclined surface 105 or attached to it. In other embodiments, the sensor 252 may be located on or attached to the dispensing head 102, and in other embodiments, the sensor 252 may be engaged with the dispenser 100 at any suitable location. The sensor 252 may be positioned so that the identifier 251 can be read when the container 200 is placed in the dispensing position. In other embodiments, the sensor 252 may be located in various other places so that before dispensing the beverage, the user can hold the container 200 or hold it near the sensor 252.

In some embodiments, the identifier 251 may have conductive material and / or semiconductors printed as a pattern on the container 200 that are capable of communicating at different frequencies using different protocols and which can be read by the sensor 252. In other embodiments, the identifier 251 may be radio frequency identifier (RFID).

In some embodiments, conductive ink may be included in the number of conductors. In various embodiments, conductors can be printed on the bottom of the container 200, between layers of material of the container, on the surface of the container 200, or on a sticker that can be attached to the container 200. The printed conductors can be visible or with the addition of visible marks so that the user can recognize the presence printed conductors. For example, visible labels may contain a message to the user with information about a feature associated with the container 200, for example, “only two servings” or “unlimited servings”. In some embodiments, the implementation of the label may be an artistic or graphic image.

In various embodiments, a number of identification or identification methods may be used to provide a unique identifier 251 for each container 200. For example, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that structures of dots and lines can be used, as, for example, in conventional barcodes. Alternatively, numbering printing may be used. You can use a sequence of letters or other forms. You can use any pattern or geometric shapes recognized by the 252 sensor and containing a sufficient number of unique configurations.

In some embodiments, the ink of the printed conductors may be washed away or otherwise become unrecognizable by condensation and moisture. This feature can be used to provide a one-time use of the container, in which ink can be washed off by condensation the first time the container is used, so that they can no longer be read by the sensor 252. The dispensing point 100 may not dispense the beverage into a container that it cannot identify.

In various filling operations, an identification system 250 may be used comprising an identifier 251 and a sensor 252. For example, a sensor 252 and an identifier 251 can be used in an automatic filling operation so that the dispensing head 102 dispenses a certain amount of beverage corresponding to the size of the container 200 identified by the identifier 251.

USER INTERFACE

As described above, each issuing location 100 may include one or more user interfaces 400. As shown by way of example in FIG. 1 and 3, the dispensing location 100 may include three user interfaces 400. The user interface 400 may be a touch screen or any other suitable system. In FIG. 6 shows one of many possible configurations described herein. In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may include a header area or a title screen 410 where graphical image, text, or other visual information can be placed to invite the consumer to make various choices. User interface 400 may include various beverage options that a user may select. In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may include various beverage options 420 with various options 430 for adding or removing flavors or ingredients. Some embodiments may include dispensing instructions, such as pouring selection 440, various water dispensing 450 and cancellation selection 460.

User interface 400 may be a touch panel and may be made of various layers, including one or more glass layers, electrode layers, insulating material, and adhesives. User interface 400 may support one or more touch zones for interacting with a user by touching within these zones.

As will be described in more detail below, the beverage dispensing system 50 may include one or more control units 500 that can be coupled to the user interface 400 to receive touch signals from the user interface 400 and perform other actions, for example, the control unit 500 can control the system 50 dispensing for dispensing drinks from the dispensing head 102 of the choice of the user.

The control unit 500 may control the operation of the user interface 400. The control unit 500 may comprise one or more processors, memory, and / or discrete logic. In some embodiments, the implementation of the control unit 500 may include software for working with the clock and calendar, an interface with sensors, such as sensors for the presence of a drink or levels of other stocks. A control unit 500 may be connected to the user interface 400 to control the touch panel and to receive user input from the user interface 400. For example, in some embodiments, the control unit 500 may obtain coordinates representing the location of the touch of the user interface by the user.

In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may be controlled during interaction to direct or guide the user in selecting a beverage. For example, art or graphic images (objects) corresponding to the available beverage options 420 may first be displayed on the user interface 400. Flavor options 430 may then be displayed on user interface 400. Finally, a “Pour” or “Fill” object may be displayed on the user interface 400 to alert the user that the dispensing process has moved to the final stage and the beverage may be dispensed.

In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may be made based on the availability of the drink product / concentrate or flavor. For example, in the absence of any flavor, the control unit 500 may control the user interface so as not to display objects related to that flavor.

User interface 400 may include multiple screens. For example, some screens may provide images related to carbonated drinks, while another layer may provide images related to juices.

In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may be performed based on the time of day. For example, in the morning hours, the control unit 500 may control the user interface 400 to display objects related to juices, while in the afternoon or evening hours, the control unit 500 may control the user interface 400 to display objects related to carbonated drinks.

In some embodiments, a proximity sensor may be used to detect the presence of the user. The proximity sensor may include an optical sensor. In some embodiments, the behavior of the user interface 400 may vary depending on the presence of the user. For example, when a user is not found near, the user interface can switch to “attract” mode, in which the user interface can use the backlight or sound to attract the attention of an uninvolved or not yet involved user. In another example, when a user is found nearby, the user interface can go into “standby” mode, in which he can respond to the initial user input.

When the user selects an object in the user interface 400, various other parts and / or screens of the user interface may be displayed. For example, a first screen may be displayed offering options for 420 drinks. After selecting a beverage, various other portions and / or screens may be presented to indicate to the user the next valid selection. For example, an option and / or a “pour” screen or option 430 for adding flavoring may be shown to indicate to the user that any of these two parts can be selected further.

In some embodiments, the user interface 400 may pause so that user input from some zones becomes unavailable and the interface can return to its original state.

In some embodiments, the interface 400 may include a “wipe” mode in which the interface 400 may become unresponsive to input for a certain amount of time, for example, for 15 seconds. The “cleaning” mode disables user inputs so that you can wipe the user interface or otherwise touch it without dispensing drinks. After a certain period of time, the interface may exit the "cleaning" mode and return to normal operation.

INGREDIENT SYSTEM

As described above, the dispensing system 50 may be a modular system having a plurality of dispensing locations 100 connected to a central remote ingredient system 300. As shown in FIG. 7, a dispensing system 50 may be provided comprising one or more dispensing locations 100 and an ingredient system 300 located remotely from the dispensing locations 100. From ingredient system 300 to dispensing locations 100, a conduit 301 may extend.

As shown in FIG. 7, the ingredient system 300 may have multiple sources of beverage ingredients. Ingredient system 300 may contain many highly concentrated ingredients to produce a wide variety of drinks. Each beverage ingredient 302 may be stored in a storage container and / or controlled by an ingredient system. Storage containers may include cartridges, bags, or bag-in-box containers, as well as any other suitable storage containers. Beverage ingredients 302 may include soft drink concentrate 304 and flavoring ingredients 306. Beverage ingredients may also include water or sparkling water 308. Concentrates and other beverage ingredients may include any of PepsiCo Inc. ingredients for forming beverages known under any PepsiCo trademark, such as Pepsi-Cola®. Concentrates and other beverage ingredients may be pumped, as needed, from storage containers or other containers of consumables to dispensing locations 100. In addition to the above beverage ingredients, any other number of beverage ingredients, such as water, milk, etc., may be included.

As described above, to provide dispensing locations 100 for beverage ingredients, such as a soft drink concentrate, bag-in-a-box (BiB) packaging may be used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, multiple BiB packages may be stacked or racked. In some embodiments, the implementation of the BiB package may be a bag or elastic container made of plastic or metallized film and enclosed in a box of corrugated box cardboard. In some embodiments, the dispensing system 50 may include an electronic level sensor for detecting the level of contents within the elastic balloon.

Ingredient system 300 may also include one or more pumping units 310 used to pump beverage ingredients 302 from ingredient system 300 through line 301 to dispensing location (s) 100 and / or dispensing head (s) 102. Pump units 310 can also be used to pump other fluids, such as cleaning solutions, through piping 301 to the dispensing head (s) 102. Pumping units can be driven by CO ₂ from the tank when it is fed through a branch of the CO ₂ gas pipeline. These pumps may contain conventional concentrate pumps, such as BIP pumps.

The ingredient system may include other systems, including, for example, an ingredient preparation system 320. Ingredient preparation system 320 can be used to prepare ingredients 302. For example, ingredient preparation system 320 can be used to cool ingredients 302 to the desired temperature for a cold drink and / or used to heat the ingredients to the desired temperature for hot drinks. The temperature ranges provided by the ingredient preparation system (s) can range from temperatures immediately below freezing (for example, to create or prepare a suspended or puffy product) to about 180 degrees Fahrenheit (for example, to create or produce a hot drink, such as coffee or tea).

The ingredient preparation system 320 may also be any suitable preparation system that can improve flavor, soften odor, and / or reduce the content of chlorine compounds. The ingredient preparation system may be, for example, a water treatment system capable of improving water quality to produce substantially pure water through systems including, without limitation, reverse osmosis (OO) systems. Prepared ingredients, including water, from the system (s) 320 for preparing the ingredients can be delivered to a dispensing location 100.

As shown in FIG. 8, the piping or main bundle 301 of microtubes comprises an outer tube 322 and a bundle of smaller inner tubes 324. The inner tubes 324 may include lines for supplying any ingredients, including lines for the beverage / concentrate, lines for flavorings, and lines for water and carbonated water.

The conduit 301 may also include a return line or a return conduit. The return line may, for example, allow the return to the ingredient system 300 of water not dispensed through the dispensing head 102.

The dispensing system 50 may also include a local milk and / or juice system. Thus, you can get a drink with the addition of a portion of juice, for example cola with a portion of lemon and / or lime juice. A drink, such as cold frappuccino or hot coffee, can be obtained with a portion of a dairy product, such as milk or cream.

The dispensing system 50 allows additional dispensing heads 102 to be added to the system, while continuing to use the ingredient system 300.

In other embodiments, the dispensing system 50 may be substantially autonomous, with one or more beverage ingredients being contained within the dispensing location 100. In such systems, all or substantially all of the beverage ingredients may be contained within cartridges or other containers within the base. In some embodiments, some beverage ingredients, such as water, may not be stored inside the dispensing location 100, which instead may include running water.

The dispensing system 50 may include automatic sanitization systems. Specialists in this field will be clear that to perform the sanitation cycle, you can use the lock part of the system. For example, to prevent accidental dispensation of the beverage, a blocking element with a recognition of the disinfectant may be provided. The blocking element with recognition of the disinfectant may have mechanical and electrical protective redundancy.

The dispensing system 50 may comprise interlocks by type of flavor.

The issuing system 50 may comprise a social media system or application and / or exchange information with them. For example, when the consumer’s mobile device is within a certain distance from the sensor associated with the modular dispensing system, a message may be sent to the consumer’s mobile device asking the consumer whether he wants to purchase the drink. Alternatively or at the same time, a message may appear at the dispensing location 100 asking the consumer whether he wants to purchase the drink. The social media system or application may load consumer preferences or preferences based on past consumer acquisitions and / or identified preferences into the issuing system 50. Thus, the issuing system 50 and / or the social media system or application can contact a specific consumer when his mobile device is within a certain distance from the sensor of the modular issuing system.

The dispensing system 50 may also receive a beverage order from a consumer through a social media system or application, including, without limitation, a social media beverage system or application, including, without limitation, restaurants, theaters, other entertainment venues and / or beverage distributors. The consumer can order a drink before arriving at the dispensing location 100 so that the drink can be prepared and placed in a container at or at the time the consumer arrives at the dispensing location 100. Alternatively, at or at the time the consumer arrives at the pick-up location 100, a container having an identifier 251 can be prepared and made available for filling.

Thus, the system can recognize a person and make certain decisions as to which drink (s) or type of drink (s) to offer to a person. The system can change its traditional offer if a person already ordered such a drink earlier or if a specific person identified the drink as a preference in the system or application for social media.

In some embodiments, the issuance system 50 may be associated with a mobile application. In some embodiments, the mobile application may be executed on a mobile device, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, etc. The mobile application may allow a consumer to select drinks to dispense through the dispensing location 100. The connection between the mobile application and the place 100 of the dispensation of drinks can be carried out through any supported wireless means, including including communication in the infrared range, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

In addition, the system can work with gifts or promotions offered by one entity to another. As an example, but not limitation, the system can identify a person, determine if he received a gift or can he take part in a promotion, and send him a request about whether this person will accept a gift or participate in a promotion, such as a free drink or discount drink.

The system may also offer a sanitation notice, including, but not limited to, displaying a vapor cloud image, a wiping motion display, and an ultraviolet treatment LED.

The system may provide various price options for the user based on the brands sold, for example, the system may determine which products the user may receive depending on the size of the cup.

Some embodiments may include a dispensing system for filling a container with a beverage from below, comprising a controller configured to receive a beverage order from a user and, based on the order received from the user, make available a container containing an identifier; a table comprising a top surface, an ingredient path located beneath the top surface, comprising a plurality of ingredient lines, a dispensing head configured to tightly engage with a recessed portion at the bottom of the container, the dispensing head comprising one or more outlets for dispensing one or more outlets to the bottom of the container ingredients derived from one or more ingredient lines, and a sensor configured to detect the presence of an identifier on the container when the container It is in sealing engagement with the dispensing head; and a controller configured to fill the container with beverage from below when the sensor detects an identifier on the container sealed to the dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the sensor of the dispensing system may be selected from the group consisting of a capacitive sensor, a radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor, an electronic sensor configured to read a label made with conductive ink, and combinations thereof.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the identifier on the container may be selected from the group consisting of a radio frequency identification tag (RFID), a conductive ink label, and combinations thereof. In any of the various embodiments described herein, a conductive ink label may become inaccessible to a sensor when exposed to moisture. In any of the various embodiments described herein, the dispensing system may be configured to not bottom-fill a container having an identifier that cannot be read by a sensor.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, a table may comprise a tabletop defining a table top surface and a supporting structure to provide support for the tabletop.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, a dispensing system may include a user interface configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of beverages for dispensing by means of a dispensing head. In any of the various embodiments described herein, a dispensing system may include a plurality of user interfaces configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head. In any of the various embodiments described herein, a dispensing system may include a plurality of user interfaces arranged radially on a table around a dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the dispensing system may comprise a plurality of tables, each of which includes a dispensing head, an ingredient path associated with the dispensing head, and a sensor configured to detect the presence of an identifier on the container when the container is in tight engagement with the dispensing head of this table, and the controller may be configured to fill containers with a beverage from below by dispensing heads on to channels on each of the tables when the sensor detects this table identifier on the container is placed in a sealed engagement with the dispensing head of this table.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the dispensing head may comprise a first outlet, a second outlet disposed vertically above the first outlet, and a third outlet disposed vertically above the second outlet, and the dispensing platform may be configured to rinse the dispensing head by dispensing carbonated or still water from the third outlet of the dispensing head after releasing the container from engagement with the dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the controller may be configured to receive a drink order from a user through a social media system.

Some embodiments may include a dispensing platform for filling the container with a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing platform includes an upper surface; located below the upper surface of the ingredient tract containing many ingredient lines; and a dispensing head associated with the ingredient path and extending vertically above the upper surface, the dispensing head comprising a plurality of outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients received from one or more ingredient lines to the bottom of the container where the outlets are placed vertically on the dispensing head, and each of the plurality of ingredient lines is in fluid communication with one of the outlets of the dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the dispensing head may comprise a first outlet, a second outlet vertically above the first outlet, and a third outlet vertically above the second outlet. In any of the various embodiments described herein, the third release may be associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of sparkling or still water. In any of the various embodiments described herein, a first release may be associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of a first ingredient, a second release may be associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of a second ingredient, and a third release may be associated with an ingredient line, associated with the source of the third ingredient. In any of the various embodiments described herein, the source of the first ingredient may be a source of flavoring, the source of the second ingredient may be a source of concentrate, and the source of the third ingredient may be a source of water.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the topmost outlet of a plurality of outlets on a dispensing head may be associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of sparkling or still water and may be configured to rinse the dispensing head by dispensing sparkling or still water.

Some embodiments may include a dispensing platform for filling the container with a beverage from below, wherein the dispensing platform includes an upper surface; a mixing chamber located under the upper surface; a dispensing head connected to the mixing chamber and extending vertically above the upper surface, the dispensing head comprising an outlet for dispensing a beverage to the bottom of the container; and an ingredient path comprising a plurality of ingredient lines for supplying beverage forming ingredients to the mixing chamber, where the beverage ingredients are mixed in the mixing chamber before dispensing the beverage from the dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, the dispensing platform may be able to rinse the mixing chamber by pumping carbonated or still water through the mixing chamber. In any of the various embodiments described herein, the mixing chamber may comprise a drain for draining carbonated or still water from the mixing chamber.

Some embodiments may include a dispensing system for filling a container with a beverage from below, the dispensing system comprising a table; a dispensing head placed on a table and configured to tightly engage with a recessed portion at the bottom of the container, the dispensing head comprising one or more outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients to the bottom of the container; a plurality of user interfaces configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head; and a controller configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head and to dispense one or more different types of drinks from the dispensing head.

In any of the various embodiments described herein, a dispensing system may include a plurality of user interfaces arranged radially on a table around a dispensing head.

The invention (s) in this document was (s) disclosed (s) and illustrated (s) with reference to the embodiments shown in the figures, but it should be understood that the features of the invention (s) can be modified, transformed, modified or replaced without significant deviation from the essence of the invention (s). For example, to suit specific applications, the dimensions, quantity, dimensions and geometric shape of the various components can be changed. Accordingly, specific embodiments are illustrated and disclosed herein for purposes of illustration only, and the invention (s) are not limited by anything other than the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (20)

1. A dispensing system for filling a container with a beverage from below, which comprises: a controller configured to receive a drink order from the user and, based on the order received from the user, ensure the availability of the container having an identifier; a table comprising: an upper surface, an ingredient path located below the upper surface, the ingredient path comprising a plurality of ingredient lines; a dispensing head configured to tightly engage with a recessed portion at the bottom of the container, the dispensing head comprising one or more outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients obtained from one or more ingredient lines to the bottom of the container, and a sensor configured to detect the presence on the container of the identifier when the container is in tight engagement with the dispensing head; wherein the controller is configured to fill the container with beverage from below, when the sensor detects an identifier on the container, which is in tight engagement with the dispensing head; wherein the dispensing head comprises a first outlet, a second outlet disposed vertically above the first outlet, and a third outlet disposed vertically above the second outlet, wherein the dispensing platform is configured to rinse the dispensing head by dispensing carbonated or still water from the third outlet of the dispensing head after release container out of engagement with the dispensing head. 2. The issuing system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is selected from the group consisting of: a capacitive sensor, a radio frequency identification (RFID) sensor, an electronic sensor configured to read a label made with conductive ink, and a combination thereof. 3. The issuance system according to claim 1, wherein the identifier is selected from the group consisting of: a radio frequency identification tag (RFID), a label made with conductive ink, and a combination thereof. 4. The dispensing system according to claim 3, in which the label, made with conductive ink, under the influence of moisture becomes inaccessible to read by the sensor. 5. The issuing system according to claim 1, which is configured to not fill the bottom of the container having an identifier that cannot be read by the sensor. 6. The delivery system according to claim 1, wherein the table comprises a countertop defining an upper surface and a supporting structure to provide support for the countertop. 7. The dispensing system according to claim 1, comprising a user interface configured to receive a user's selection from one or more different types of drinks for dispensing by means of a dispensing head. 8. The dispensing system according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of user interfaces configured to receive a user selection from one or more different types of beverages for dispensing by means of a dispensing head. 9. The issuing system of claim 8, wherein the plurality of user interfaces are arranged radially on a table around the dispensing head. 10. The dispensing system according to claim 1, comprising a plurality of tables, each of which contains a dispensing head, an ingredient path associated with the dispensing head, and a sensor configured to detect the presence of an identifier on the container when the container is in tight engagement with the dispensing head of this the table; moreover, the controller is configured to fill containers with a beverage from below by dispensing heads on each table, when the sensor of this table detects an identifier on the container, which is in tight engagement with the dispensing head of this table. 11. The dispensing system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to receive a drink order from a user through a social media system. 12. A dispensing platform for filling a container with a beverage from below, which comprises: an upper surface; an ingredient path located below the upper surface, the ingredient path comprising a plurality of ingredient lines; and a dispensing head associated with the ingredient path and extending vertically above the upper surface, wherein the dispensing head comprises a plurality of outlets for dispensing one or more ingredients received from one or more ingredient lines to the bottom of the container, the outlets being placed vertically on the dispensing head and wherein each of the plurality of ingredient lines is in fluid communication with one of the outlets of the dispensing head. 13. The delivery platform of claim 12, wherein the plurality of issues comprise a first issue, a second issue arranged vertically above the first issue, and a third issue arranged vertically above the second issue. 14. The delivery platform of claim 13, wherein the third release is associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of sparkling or still water. 15. The delivery platform of claim 14, wherein the first release is associated with an ingredient line associated with the source of the first ingredient, the second issue is associated with the ingredient line associated with the source of the second ingredient, and the third issue is associated with the ingredient line associated with the source of the third ingredient . 16. The delivery platform of claim 15, wherein the source of the first ingredient is a source of flavoring, the source of the second ingredient is a source of concentrate, and the source of the third ingredient is a source of water. 17. The dispensing platform of claim 12, wherein the uppermost outlet of the plurality of releases is associated with an ingredient line associated with a source of sparkling or still water and is configured to rinse the dispensing head by dispensing sparkling or still water. 18. A dispensing platform for filling a container with a beverage from below, which comprises: an upper surface; a mixing chamber located under the upper surface; a dispensing head connected to the mixing chamber and extending vertically above the upper surface, the dispensing head comprising an outlet for dispensing a beverage to the bottom of the container; and an ingredient path comprising a plurality of ingredient lines for feeding ingredients to form a beverage into the mixing chamber, wherein the beverage ingredients are mixed in the mixing chamber before dispensing the beverage from the dispensing head. 19. The delivery platform according to claim 18, which is configured to rinse the mixing chamber by pumping carbonated or still water through the mixing chamber. 20. The delivery platform according to claim 19, wherein the mixing chamber comprises a drain for draining carbonated or still water from the mixing chamber.

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